Sunshine Coast Council, in partnership with the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast (ICSC), invites the region’s creative industry to access rent-free office space as part of the Creative Industries Business Incubation Lab.
This unique opportunity is part of council’s smartArts+ program which has been developed to support the growth of the Sunshine Coast’s creative industries sector.
Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Mark Jamieson said the Creative Industries Business Incubation Lab will operate for an initial 12 month period from January 2013.
“Within this period, up to six Sunshine Coast based creative industry businesses will gain access to rent free hi-tech office space, business mentoring, time in the Centre’s podcast studio and access to the Innovation Centre’s extensive network of business and finance contacts,” he said.
“The creative industries are a significant emerging industry on the Sunshine Coast and this pilot program seeks to promote the region as a hub for creativity and innovation.
“By supporting this initiative, council is helping lay the foundations for business and employment opportunities in the region’s creative industries.”
ICSC Chief Executive Officer Mark Paddenburg said the Innovation Centre has welcomed 11 new companies in 2012, three of which operate in the creative industries space, bringing the total number supported to 96 businesses, creating around 400 jobs.
“We see significant value in supporting creative industry businesses. They are a vibrant part of the regional economy with strong linkages to many other industries,” Mr Paddenburg said.
“Supporting innovation and creative talent will have positive long term benefits for the local economy and our community.”
The Creative Industries Business Incubation Lab opportunity is open to new and emerging businesses in the areas of digital, film, music, fashion, design, interactive media, visual arts and performing arts.
First round expressions of interest close 5pm Monday 7 January 2013 and businesses will be chosen based on their ability to meet set criteria. For further information contact Sunshine Coast Council on 5475 7272 or email communityandculturalprograms@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au